D'Arcy Spice

Eating

D’Arcy Spice is an old apple variety originating near Colchester, Essex, prior to 1800. D'Arcy Spice is a rather slow-growing tree that is fairly tolerant of relatively poor soils, sandy soils, windswept areas and salty air - conditions in which many apples will not thrive. However, on poor soils, a strong rootstock would be required – such as MM111 or M25. The tree flowers mid-season, often on the tips of branches, but also on a moderate number of spurs.

In a good year, this is one of the finest-flavoured apples - aromatic with hints of sweet spices (nutmeg & cinnamon). However in a poor or average season it can be a bit disappointing, particularly if eaten under-ripe. It is important not to pick it too early and then to store it for several months in cool conditions.

The general advice is that this variety is best suited to the conditions in its county of origin (and not Cumbria). However, it will grow perfectly well here and is quite disease-resistant, but it needs a year like 2018 to really shine.